Police committed to improving communication with Kirklevington victims

Decades of “barbaric” attacks at the Yarm institution between the 1960s and 1990s have been the focus of Cleveland Police’s Operation Magnolia since it launched in 2014.  

A total of 938 victims have come forward to police and at least 21 suspects have been interviewed as part of the probe – but not one person has been convicted. 

Numerous victims of “daily brutality” at the “torture camp” say they feel “forgotten” by police, and fear they may never get justice as former officers die.

While the operation has previously been branded as “inadequate” by victims, police say survivors of abuse “remain at the very heart” of the work. 

And this week, senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Chatterton said it remains “fully committed” to improving communication with those who suffered behind bars.

HMP Kirklevington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

It comes after concerns were raised by victims about how the force had communicated with them regarding the operation. 

DCI Chatterton said: “I can wholeheartedly understand the concerns, frustrations and questions around the length of time this investigation has taken. 

“This investigation remains active, and we continue to pursue all lines of enquiry and work closely with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

“We have not lost sight of the fact that the length of time this investigation has taken is upsetting and frustrating for all those affected. 

HMP Kirklevington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

“We remain fully committed to listening to victims and survivors and improving our communication with them. 

“We have clearly defined strategies to ensure that significant investigative updates are provided in a timely manner to each individual victim.

“There will always be support available for victims and survivors, and I encourage anyone affected to continue engaging with their appointed support services”.”

Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey previously said he “shares the concerns” of victims over the length of the investigation.

Cleveland Police HQ in Hemlington (Image: Chris Booth)

Last month, The Northern Echo named one of the “barbaric” prison officers believed to have abused hundreds of children at the institution. 

Douglas Harrison – who died in 2019 – had been reported by 273 victims to police and was set to be charged with misconduct in a public office and numerous assaults days before his death. 

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with the friends and families of those affected. 

“Child abuse is abhorrent and we commend the bravery of victims who come forward. It would be inappropriate to comment further while a police investigation is ongoing.”

Anyone who suffered abuse at Kirklevington Detention Centre can report this to Cleveland Police. Victims can also contact Oakwood Solicitors for advice on legal claims.